kcole, it sure depends on the DEPARTMENT we're talking about.
Here's one for everyone here: Generalizations are generally wrong.
Take for example the Las Vegas SWAT, Los Angeles, or Atlanta. Orlando SWAT. I've watched these departments competing in SWAT tournaments-
alongside the likes of Grenshutzegrouppe-9 ! In one recent tournament, the GSG-9 came in 3rd place, with first going to Nevada, and 2nd going to Orlando, IIRC.
For those who don't know,
GSG-9 is a world class anti-terrorist unit that cross trains with USN SEAL Team-6, FBI HRT and US Army Special Forces. They travel to the states and compete with SWAT teams and others, to keep their edge.
Its all about the individual unit at the particular time.
I just thought the video was funny, but I don't think its a good indicator of ALL police departments. The ones in the videos, however, are in need of some basic fundamentals.
In my opinion, the
"who's who" of elite, highly skilled professional units closely resembles the NFL, with capabilities being generally uniform, but with actual proficiency based on a constantly fluctuating set of variables, including personnel, training cycles, budgetary issues, and availability of equipment. Just like one football team can go to the Superbowl last year, and start their first game this season losing 10 to 26 to the Bucs (where you at, Colts?). It's all about who is "
on" right now. And whoever's on right now might not be next year, depending on rotations of personnel, whoever is in charge leaving, or coming aboard, etc.